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Lightning Safety Week, June 21-27, emphasizes the dangers of
lightning and how to prepare for and stay safe during summer
thunderstorms. Its theme is “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors.”

On June 3, lightning struck and killed a boy at a baseball field in
Spotsylvania County. Lightning also can cause many serious injuries and
problems, such as memory loss, attention deficits, sleep disorders,
dizziness, stiffness in joints and depression.

At the first clap of thunder, go indoors or into an enclosed vehicle.
Remain inside until 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides
these safety tips:

Monitor developing thunderstorms. The “Flash to Bang” method can help
estimate your distance from lightning. If you see lightning, count the
number of seconds until you hear thunder. Divide the number of seconds
by five to get the distance in miles.

If you can hear thunder, seek shelter. Even if it is not raining,
lightning can strike within 10 miles of an area that is experiencing
rain.

Stop all outdoor activities at the first clap of thunder to give
yourself time to move indoors. Leaders of outdoor events should have a
plan for moving participants inside.

If you cannot go indoors, squat low to the ground to make yourself the
smallest target possible. Go to a low-lying area and stay away from
trees, poles and metal objects.

Call 9-1-1 immediately if someone has been struck by lightning. People
who have been struck by lightning do not carry an electrical charge.

Stay updated about approaching thunderstorms by signing up for the
Community Emergency Alert Network (CEAN), which sends emergency
alerts and day-to-day updates about severe weather and traffic to
registered users.

For more information about lightning safety, call the Fairfax County
Office of Emergency Management at 571-350-1000, TTY 711.